My Name is Julian

I’m still finding my way in ministry, even after more than three decades.

One thing I’ve learned is that people who seem disconnected from church aren’t necessarily disconnected from God. In fact, God is often already at work in unexpected places. Our role is to notice, listen and walk alongside people.

Belonging matters. We are social creatures, and creating a welcoming church begins with opening ourselves to the people around us—especially those experiencing homelessness, loneliness or hardship.

Sometimes the most important thing we can offer is simply our presence: to listen, offer companionship and stay alongside someone. We don’t have to have all the answers. Thankfully, Newtown is full of people who know how to help.

I also believe we need to work together. Churches, faith communities and organisations each have something to offer. When we share our knowledge, resources, networks and compassion, we become stronger.

And when someone feels that God has forgotten them, I would say: God has not forgotten you.

The Bible is full of people who felt lost, abandoned and without hope—yet discovered that God was present with them.

That’s the kind of community I hope we continue building at Newtown Mission: a place where nobody feels forgotten, judged or left behind.

If I could leave the people of Newtown Mission with one message of hope, it would be this:

God is not finished with us yet.